1950s Marilyn Monroe Lock of Hair

An amazing 1950s presentation of a fabulous Hollywood relic: a small lock of Marilyn Monroe's hair, with provenance directly from her personal hairdresser, Kenneth Battelle. The neatly tied lock of approximately twenty (20) strands of Marilyn's hair is housed in a 1.25 x 1.75 inch flat paper box. The lock and its container are part of an elaborate presentation, attached to a larger paper box measuring 2.5 x 3 inches, within which is a tiny cased photo of Monroe measuring 1 x 1.5 inches, surrounded by a fabric-lined matting. A paper label reading "Kenneth, Hairdresser, Marilyn Monroe" appears on the cover. "Mr. Kenneth," during the 1950s and early 1960s, was truly the hairdresser to the stars in New York, and was particularly well known for his association with Marilyn Monroe. Interestingly enough, Kenneth was also the favorite hairdresser of Jackie Kennedy and created her trademark bouffant hairdo. The circumstances relating to the creation of this presentation are unknown. It is likely that Kenneth had these made up as special gifts for friends, perhaps during the holiday season. Robert Edward Auctions regularly passes on opportunities to offer the hair of famous persons (Lincoln, Elvis, Washington, etc.) in part because we believe it is virtually impossible for us to authenticate hair with certainty. This is the very first celebrity hair we have ever offered, and we have made this exception because we are so impressed with the elaborate period presentation, which alone makes this piece worthy of offering. We have no way to authenticate Marilyn's hair, but because of the presentation we have as much or more confidence in this sample than any other sample of a famous person's hair we have ever seen offered. The recent return of tens of thousands of dollars worth of Elvis hair purchased at auction, which was allegedly DNA tested with negative results, confirms our conservative approach to this area of collecting. This is a very striking and unique keepsake custom-made for presentation by Marilyn Monroe's personal hairdresser in the 1950s. Overall the box is in Very Good condition, with general wear, but with a magnificent look, ideal for display. Monroe remains the definitive symbol of glamour, Hollywood in the Golden Era, sex-appeal, and tragedy. Her short life still resonates with most film enthusiasts. This is a very unusual, personal, and touching relic relating to her great legend. Reserve $400. Estimate $800/$1,200.SOLD FOR $1,508.00

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